The tension was thick in room 306 of the Criminal Justice Center in Philadelphia on Wednesday. Michael White, 21, was being charged with killing Sean Schellenger. I was moved by the number of supporters present for Mr. White. It wasn’t just family and friends. It was neighbors, classmates, and even the bishop. It was a COMMUNITY that came out to support Michael White.

What is Michael’s story? Who is this young man?

Life wasn’t easy for Michael White growing up. His family situation was complicated and money was tight. Despite his struggles, he was working hard to carve a place for himself in world. He is a poet. . .